Category: A2 milk

While an estimated 65% of the world's population has some form of lactose intolerance, an inability to process the sugar in milk, this is a digestive issue separate from a full-blown dairy allergy, which is an immune system response. This critical difference determines whether A2 milk is a suitable option for you.

According to Raw Farm's own blog, a growing number of their cows carry the A2A2 genetic marker, and they believe all raw milk is inherently easier to digest. The question, 'Does Raw Farm use A2 milk?' leads to a deeper conversation about raw dairy and the differences between A1 and A2 beta-casein proteins.

A single amino acid difference in beta-casein protein is the key distinction between A1 and A2 milk, which may affect digestibility for some consumers. This distinction has led many people to seek out dedicated A2 milk brands, hoping to alleviate common digestive discomforts associated with conventional dairy.

Genetic testing of Jersey cows in one study revealed that a high frequency of the A2 allele for beta-casein was present, though a mix of A1 and A2 is most common across different breeds. For those wondering if Raw Farm's raw milk fits into the exclusive A2 category, the answer is a bit more nuanced than a simple yes or no. It requires understanding milk proteins and the company's specific production model.

According to market analysis firm Pristine Market Insights, the A2 milk market is expected to experience significant growth globally over the next decade, with rapid expansion projected in Europe and North America. This rapid growth confirms that A2 milk is international, moving beyond its origins to become a recognized dairy product worldwide.

While standard milk contains a mix of A1 and A2 beta-casein proteins, a 2019 study at the University of Minnesota found that over 50% of its Holstein herd were A2/A2, a trait not actively selected for. In the USA, A2 milk comes from specific breeds and genetically tested herds, not just any cow.

Recent studies suggest that A1 beta-casein protein found in regular milk can contribute to digestive discomfort in some individuals, leading many to ask: Which butter is from A2 cows? A2 butter is sourced from specific cow breeds that naturally produce milk containing only the A2 beta-casein protein, offering a potentially gentler alternative for sensitive stomachs.

Unlike the milk from many domesticated Western cow breeds, buffalo milk is naturally and exclusively A2. The A2 status of milk refers to the type of beta-casein protein it contains, and buffalo milk contains only the A2 variant, making it a popular choice for those with A1 protein sensitivity.

As a cooperative of thousands of family farms, Organic Valley's milk is not exclusively A2; in fact, their herds are a mix of dairy breeds that produce both A1 and A2 beta-casein proteins. This often comes as a surprise to consumers who assume all organic milk shares the A2 trait found in some specific brands.